Dicyclomine (By Mouth)

Dicyclomine (dye-SYE-kloe-meen)

Treats irritable bowel syndrome or spastic colon and colitis.

Brand Name(s):

Bentyl
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to dicyclomine or to related medicines such as atropine or scopolamine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Take the medicine 30 minutes to 1 hour before meals unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• Swallow the extended-release tablet whole. Do not break, crush or chew.
• Measure your dose of the oral liquid with a measuring spoon. Make sure you use the correct size spoon so you get the right amount of medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next usual dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use dicyclomine within 2 to 3 hours of taking antacids (Maalox®, Mylanta®) or medicine to stop diarrhea.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using any drugs that make you sleepy such as sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, cold or allergy medicine, medicine for depression, or narcotic pain killers.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before using dicyclomine.
• Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you have glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, stomach problems, heart, liver, or kidney disease, or any other medical problems.
• This medicine should not be given to babies less than 6 months old unless it was ordered by your doctor.
• This medicine may make you sweat less and cause your body to get too hot. Be careful in hot weather, while you are exercising, or if using a sauna or whirlpool.
• Your eyes may be more sensitive to bright light while you are using this medicine. You may want to wear sunglasses in bright sunlight.
• This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Be careful driving a car, using machinery, or doing dangerous jobs.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Restlessness, agitation or confusion
• Severe dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fast heartbeat
• Fainting
• Skin rash or hives

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea
• Constipation or bloated feeling
• Decreased appetite
• Dry mouth
• Stuffy nose or congestion
• Trouble focusing or other vision changes
• Trouble urinating

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.